Best PhotoY2Y Region: Madison River Elk Rut by Brian Bastinelli of York, Pennsylvania

Late one afternoon in September 2005 I stopped to photograph a bald eagle perched along the Madison River in Yellowstone National Park, Bastinelli said in a statement. As if on cue, the eagle flew away as soon as I was in position. Disappointed, I moved on.

Roughly a mile down the road I came upon a herd of elk and noticed two bulls posturing along the banks. I first silently thanked the eagle for flying off and then set out to record the amazing battle for dominance unfolding before me.